Planning a summer trip to Šibenik? Sure you don't want to miss three remarkable land fortresses - St. Michael's, Barone, and St. John's Fortress. Once defendants of town, nowadays the fortresses are witnesses of famous history which is interpreted via modern technology. By night, summer stages on the fortresses host live music and dance performances or become open-air cinemas, making them a great place to spend warm summer evenings.
In case you didn't know, the best way to visit the Šibeniks fortresses is with a combined daily ticket - one ticket that allows you to visit all three forts. You don't have to run around and visit them all in one day. The combined ticket can be used within 7 days from the purchase date! Besides the daily visit, this ticket also grants you entrance to some evening events at Barone Fortress.
Here are 13 reasons why the combined ticket is the best choice when visiting Šibenik's fortresses in summer.
1. Panoramic views
Witness the stunning views of Šibenik and the surrounding Krka River and the Adriatic Sea from three different viewpoints! As you ascend the fortress walls, prepare to be mesmerized by unparalleled vistas. Gaze upon the terracotta rooftops of Šibenik, the azure waters of the Adriatic, and nearby islands that seem to float on the horizon. With your camera, capture moments that blend history and natural beauty seamlessly.
2. Barone Summer Cinema
At the open-air Barone Summer Cinema on Wednesdays and Saturdays, we watch movies from Croatian, European, or international independent production. All movies have English subtitles and the best part is that popcorns are free!
3. VR games at St. Michael's Fortress
Let's play a VR game! Dungeon Run, Wall Defence, OLD TOWN Race, or Escape room – you can't miss whatever you choose. Step into a world of virtual reality at St. Michael's Fortress and immerse yourself in a unique experience.
4. Family edition
The combined ticket for all three fortresses also comes in a family edition. The young ones will surely enjoy playing VR games at St. Michale's Fortress or running around the secure playground at Barone while you sip your coffee in a bar overlooking them.
5. Modern approach to history
Upon entering St. Michael's fortress, you'll be transported back in time via modern technology, in a series of immersive experiences. Learn about the origin of the fortress and its role in defending the city through 3D mapping projections in two cisterns from the 15th century.
Take a complimentary audio guide from Info Point and take a tour that provides a comprehensive understanding of the fortress's evolution.
6. AR tour
Unravel the stories that echo within Barone Fortress stone walls with an AR (augmented reality) device. Take a walk with our virtual guides that take you to the past, in the daily lives of soldiers, gaining insights into their routines, weaponry, and techniques. Witness the epic battles and find out more about two great victories of the people of Šibenik that have preserved the city as you see it today.
7. Stand out with your summer vacation photos
A tobruk-type bunker from Second World War at St. John's Fortress, a beautiful over-dimensioned old gramophone at St. Michael's Fortress, or perfect sunset at Barone Fortress – don't choose the location for the perfect selfie, take them at all three!
8. Cocktail o'clock at golden hour
A cocktail at golden hour sounds like a great idea, especially if you spend it at Barone Fortress with a glass of locally infused spritzer. Local whiskey mixed with soft sparkling drinks or juices and topped off with authentic herbs comes as the perfect refreshment after a day of sightseeing.
9. Best shopping spots in town
Buying souvenirs in an old gunpowder magazine? Only at St. John's Fortress! All three fortresses have shops, but this one is a gem! Handmade and individually designed souvenirs, best wines and liqueurs, jewelry inspired by tradition, cosmetics with Dalmatian scents, and unique products created from the Mediterranean and the Šibenik tradition - choose your favorite and take a piece of Šibenik with you!
10. ABC of fortifications at St. Michael's Fortress
Ok, now you know a lot about the three fortresses, but do you know how many were found around Šibenik? Do you know how to name some parts of the fortress? At St. Michael's Fortress, we have prepared an exhibition that serves as a quick guide through the most interesting and important fortification locations & terms to remember.
11. Where old and new architecture meet
St. John's Fortress boasts remarkable architecture, characterized by its strategic design and robust stone walls. Explore the fortress's nooks and crannies, traverse its defensive walkways, and gain a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship that went into its construction. These old stone walls today guard the modern educational campus situated below the northern part of the fortress, the so-called pliers. See how old and new architecture complement each other!
12. History of music at St Michaels' Fortress
Wanna know why is the oldest Šibenik fortress today has a remarkable open-air open-air stage? Find all about it at St. Michaels's Fortress underground! The exhibition is placed in the area used as backstage when there is a concert. Take a stroll where Lorde, Bryan Ferry, LP, Michael Kiwanuka, Kings of Convenience, Róisín Murphy, Gregory Porter, Gus Gus, Stereo MC's, Laibach, Morcheeba, The National, Nouvelle Vague, Thievery Corporation, and many others prepared for their show sin Šibenik!
13. Cardio
All three fortresses are perched atop hills overlooking the town. By taking a short walk uphill you will get your daily dose of cardio exercise, so forget the guilt trip for skipping the gym.
Convinced?
Exploring St. Michael's Fortress, Barone Fortress, and St. John's Fortress is surely a time well spent. With a combined daily ticket, you open the door to a world where stories of the past blend harmoniously with the present, leaving you with lasting memories of a truly extraordinary journey through Šibenik's historical treasures.
Hope our 13 reasons why the combined ticket is the best choice to buy helped you planning a summer trip to Šibenik! So, when do we see you at the fortresses?
